Nitrogenous compounds in the xylem sap of American elms with Dutch elm disease
Thirty-two ninhydrin-positive nitrogenous compounds were present in the xylem sap of 6- to 9-year- old American elms. Twenty-six of these compounds were identified. Total concentration of nitrogenous materials was several times higher in diseased than in healthy sap after inoculation during the susceptible period in the spring, but was lower after inoculations during the late resistant period. Percentage compositions of γ-amino-n-butyric acid, proline, and alanine in diseased sap increased after both spring and mid-summer inoculations. Proline, which was present in trace amounts in healthy sap, constituted 14 to 38% of the total in diseased sap. Percentage concentrations of amide nitrogen in diseased sap were reduced 50% or more in all inoculated trees. Percentages of ammonia, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and several other amino acids did not change.